If there's one thing you should be clear about regarding retinol and glycolic acid , it's this: they are two spectacular active ingredients, but they should not be used together in the same routine .
If we start from there, the rest is a piece of cake. Let's explain it in detail so there are no doubts.
Retinol: the king of cell renewal
Retinol is undoubtedly one of the most powerful anti-aging cosmetic ingredients available. Its function is to stimulate cell renewal , helping the skin regain its best appearance.
Benefits of retinol :
✔ Reduces wrinkles and expression lines.
✔ Evens out skin tone, reducing blemishes and imperfections.
✔ Regulates oil production, ideal for oily skin.
✔ Promotes the production of collagen and elastin.
However, it does require patience . It's not a product where you "apply it today and tomorrow you'll have perfect skin." The effects are seen with consistency and, above all, with good hydration and mandatory sun protection .
Glycolic acid: the secret to radiance
If you're looking for brighter, more even skin with a smoother texture, glycolic acid is your best ally. It's an alpha-hydroxy acid ( AHA ) that gently exfoliates the skin , removing dead cells and revealing a more radiant complexion.
Benefits of glycolic acid:
✔ Lightens blemishes and evens out skin tone.
✔ Exfoliates without the need for granules (goodbye to aggressive physical exfoliants).
✔ Adds juiciness and luminosity.
✔ Stimulates collagen production.
✔ Deeply moisturizes the skin.
But be careful : do not apply it the same night as retinol . If you use them together, your skin may become irritated, more sensitive, and even dehydrated.
How to combine them without damaging the skin?
In the morning:
-
Clean with a mild cleaner.
-
Hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration.
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Vitamin C , antioxidant and depigmentant.
-
Moisturizing cream .
- Sunscreen (essential!).
At night (alternating active ingredients for maximum effectiveness):
Night 1: Retinol
- Double cleansing : cleansing oil + cleansing mousse.
- Hyaluronic acid on damp skin.
- Wait 30 minutes before applying retinol (contact with water may cause irritation).
- Apply retinol (4-6 drops on the face, avoiding the neck, décolleté and eye contour).
- Wait 5 minutes and apply moisturizer .
Night 2: Glycolic Acid
- Double cleansing : cleansing oil + cleansing mousse.
- Hyaluronic acid .
- Apply glycolic acid (no need to wait, just the absorption time between products).
- Seal with moisturizer and niacinamide .
Niacinamide every night : regardless of whether it's a retinol or glycolic night, this ingredient helps soothe the skin and prevent the appearance of blemishes.
Why alternate them and not use them together?
Simply put: they're too potent when combined and can sensitize the skin . If you overuse acids, you could end up with irritated, dehydrated skin and even more blemishes (yes, the exact opposite of what you wanted).
Golden rule: One night retinol , one night glycolic acid. This way you get the best of both without disrupting your skin barrier.
From what age can you use them?
Glycolic acid : suitable for any age, even from 25 years old to improve texture and luminosity.
Retinol : recommended from age 30 , although in cases of acne or very damaged skin, it can be incorporated earlier.
If you've never used acids, start slowly (twice a week and increase according to your skin's tolerance).
In summary:
✔ Do not mix retinol and glycolic acid in the same routine .
✔ Alternate one night with retinol and the next with glycolic acid .
✔ Use sunscreen every morning (no excuses).
✔ Apply niacinamide every night to soothe your skin.
✔ Be consistent : the results are worth it.
With this routine, say goodbye to blemishes and dull skin. Ready for brighter, more even skin?
